Big events scheduled!

January 7, 2015

The Capitol Square Review and Advisory Board (CSRAB) educates the tens of thousands of citizens that tour the Statehouse annually, facilitates the function of government and the Ohio General Assembly (OGA) and protects the historical integrity of the Statehouse while at the same time, ensuring the safety of the those who work in and visit the Ohio Capitol. The Ohio Statehouse offers a wide range of exhibits and events for families and individuals of all ages.

The Statehouse is handicapped accessible and senior friendly. Enjoy the Capitol Cafe and Statehouse Museum Shop. Convenient parking is available in the Capitol Square underground parking garage. All events will take place at the Ohio Statehouse, Broad & High Streets; downtown Columbus. For more information about Ohio Statehouse events, please, visit www.ohiostatehouse.org or 614/752-9777.
Family Day at the Ohio Statehouse January, 10, 2015; 1 to 4 p.m.
Ohio Statehouse, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!

You’re invited to attend "Family Day at the Ohio Statehouse," and join Governor John R. Kasich, First Lady Karen W. Kasich and Lt. Gov. Taylor for fun activities at the historic Ohio Statehouse. This is a wonderful opportunity to explore the magnificent Ohio Capitol!

Family Day will feature FREE activities for the entire family including hands-on arts and science projects, games, local food samplings, fitness demonstrations, historical characters, and much more! Volunteers and staff of the Capitol Square Review and Advisory Board—the agency that administers the Ohio Statehouse—will be on hand to discuss the historical significance of the Ohio Capitol. Additionally, CSRAB historic site manager, Chris Matheney will be conducting 18th century flintlock musket firings at 1, 2, 3, and 4 p.m. on the North Plaza of Capitol Square.

New Hollow, an Ohio-based rock ’n’ roll band, will also be performing a FREE concert in the Statehouse Atrium.

Come in from the cold and visit the Ohio Statehouse for a great day of family fun. FREE parking will be available in the Statehouse garage.

This exhibit will feature a montage of political campaign material from Ohio elections. Some campaign buttons feature election winners, some election losers. Some buttons highlight issues important to constituents, sometimes with humor. This material is from the Ohio Statehouse Museum’s developing collections and covers elections and issues from the past 30 years.

“The Ohio Statehouse has housed state government for the past 158 years, and since 1857, this magnificent Ohio Capitol has been revered and loved by the citizens of Ohio. The Ohio Statehouse license plate will give citizens the ability to preserve and protect the historical heritage of this great state through education and inspire future leaders of Ohio,” said William Carleton, CSRAB executive director. The legislation establishing the Ohio Statehouse license plate stipulates that $25 from every plate purchased will go to the capitol square renovation gift fund. This fund is used for purchasing art, museum collections, and funding the educational programs that over 70,000 Ohio school children enjoy every year here at the Ohio Statehouse.

As outlined in the agency’s founding legislation, CSRAB educates the tens of thousands of citizens that tour the Statehouse annually, facilitates the function of the Ohio General Assembly (OGA) and state government and protects the historical integrity of the Ohio Statehouse while at the same time, ensuring the safety of those who work in and visit Capitol Square.

Listed by the National Park Service as a National Historic Landmark, the Greek Revival grandeur of the Ohio Statehouse symbolizes the history, heritage, and future of this great State. Please, help support the educational programs offered at the Ohio Statehouse and through that support, help inspire the next generation of Ohio leaders. The Ohio Statehouse license plate can be purchased here: http://bmv.ohio.gov/special_plates.stm.
Ohio Statehouse Museum Shop Closed for Inventory January: 22, 23 and 24Red Carnation Day at the Ohio Statehouse January 29, 2015; 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Ohio Statehouse Rotunda, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!

Dayton, Ohio, native Lewis G. Reynolds founded the Carnation League of America in 1903. The League encouraged all Americans to wear a red carnation on William McKinley’s birthday, January 29. President William McKinley was assassinated at the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo two years prior. McKinley’s favorite flower was said to be the carnation. The observance will include a small exhibit on the history of Carnation Day and the life and legacy of Ohio Governor and President William McKinley.

The Statehouse will also offer special discounts throughout the day in the Museum Shop and Capitol Cafe for individuals wearing a red carnation or dressed in scarlet.
Statewide Tribute to Rosa ParksChildren’s Art Exhibition January 31 – March 1, 2015
Ohio Statehouse Map Room, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!

Rosa Parks, The Power of One, is a K through third-grade student art exhibit sponsored by COTA. The exhibit is the students’ artistic expression of how they would change things for the better. Rosa Parks is honored because through her act of courage, she helped make America a better place for all people. Students were asked what would you do if you had a chance… To do a brave thing? A courageous thing? A kind thing? If nothing stood in your way, what would you do to change America and make it a better place for all people?
Grande Winter Ball January 31, 2015; 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Ohio Statehouse Atrium, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/728-4185
RSVP required by emailing statehouseball@live.com.

Individuals of all ages are invited to attend the Grande Winter Ball hosted by Civil War re-enactors, 1st Ohio Light Artillery Battery A. Come dance or watch. Learn how to reel or waltz. Dress in attire of the Civil War period or come as you are. For entry, a tax deductible donation of $10 per person or $15 per couple will be appreciated. For students, a donation of $5 will be appreciated. Checks or money orders should be made payable to "1st Ohio Light Artillery, Battery A," a 501(c)(3) non-profit Ohio corporation (tax identification number: 26-3648665).

Space is limited. To assure entry, please make sure that we receive both your RSVP and donation no later than January 21, 2015.
Please send RSVPs, identifying the name(s) of those attending, to: statehouseball@live.com. For more information, contact 614/728-4185.
This program is supported by the 1st Ohio Light Artillery, Battery A.
Black History Month at the Ohio Statehouse February 1 - 28, 2015; 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Ohio Statehouse, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!

The Ohio Statehouse will celebrate Black History Month throughout February with a special display and free historical performances each Tuesday at noon. Visitors can also enjoy a special soul food menu at the Capitol Cafe each Tuesday in February.
We’ve Known Rivers! Is a group of dynamic storytellers with a passion for history.
Each Tuesday in February 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.; February 3, 10, 17, 24, 2015
Ohio Statehouse Museum Gallery, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!

February 3 - Tuskegee Airmen: Courage in the Skies, presented by Anthony Gibbs

Sponsored by the Professional Land Surveyors of America, this exhibit will examine the territorial governor of the Northwest Territory and the five early governors of Ohio who also worked as land surveyors throughout their lifetimes. The information will contain biographical overviews, professional reflections as land surveyors and ways in which these leaders influenced the development of Ohio. The exhibit will also include one panel on general information of the land surveying profession relevant to the time period.

Save at the Ohio Statehouse Museum Shop’s Wear Red Day February 6, 2015; 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Ohio Statehouse, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!
Save 20% off one item when you dress in ruby on Wear Red Day at the Ohio Statehouse Museum Shop Friday, February 6, 2015.
The Eyes of Freedom: Lima Company Memorial Exhibit February 9 - 22, 2015; 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Ohio Statehouse Rotunda, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!
The Eyes of Freedom: The Lima Company Memorial will return to the Ohio Statehouse and will be on view from February 9 to 22. The exhibit was first unveiled at the Ohio Statehouse in 2008. The display was created in memory of 22 fallen Marines and a Navy Corpsman from the Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division who lost their lives while serving in Iraq in 2005. The exhibition will be on public view for 14 days in the Ohio Statehouse Rotunda and is free and open to the public.
Statehood Day Exhibit February 27 - March 4, 2015
Ohio Statehouse Rotunda, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!

In commemoration of Ohio’s founding on March 1, 1803, the Ohio Statehouse will host a small exhibit in the Statehouse Rotunda. The Statehood Day exhibit will include the film, “The Debate Over Statehood,” the original portraits of Arthur St. Clair and Thomas Worthington, and a model of the first Ohio Capitol in Columbus.
Women’s History Month at the Ohio Statehouse Women’s History Exhibition
February 28 - April 2, 2015; 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Ohio Statehouse Museum Gallery and Map Room, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!

After the passage of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1919, women gained the right to vote. Florence Harding was the first woman who was legally able to cast a vote for her husband, presidential candidate Warren G. Harding. Rare film clips from the Ohio Historical Society show a suffragette parade in Marion, Ohio, and Mr. and Mrs. Harding voting in the 1920 presidential election. An exhibit will feature Florence Harding’s personal items, including a favorite campaign necklace.

This exhibit begins with the assassination of our nation’s 16th president, Abraham Lincoln. It follows his funeral train route from Washington D.C. to Springfield, Illinois, and focuses on photographs of how he was honored at each stop. This exhibit will bring to life one of those stops in our own Ohio Statehouse, where 50,000 Ohioans paid their respects. Reproduction images are courtesy of the Library of Congress.

General John Curtis Caldwell had answered the call of duty at the outbreak of the American Civil War. As a brigade commander and eventual corps commander of the Army of the Potomac, he participated in some of the most ferocious fighting between North and South. Travelling with the army from one battlefront to the next, Caldwell was wounded twice.

On April 20, 1865, General Caldwell received a letter from the War Department advising him that he had been appointed to the "Guard of Honor" that was to accompany President Lincoln’s remains "from the city of Washington to Springfield, Illinois, and continue with them until they are consigned to their final resting-place."

A partial list of objects in the exhibit are: a War Department pass for the Lincoln funeral train, a silver tassel from the catafalque, a mourning badge and ribbon, a silk from the Cleveland service and funeral time table from the slain president’s Columbus repose.

The Ohio Statehouse will highlight works of art in this special exhibition featuring students in grades K-12 in Ohio's public schools. The student exhibition recognizes the talents, creativity and innovation of students who receive high quality arts education instruction as part of their academic experience in school.
This exhibit is presented by the Ohio Alliance for Arts Education.
Earth Day Fossil Tour and Exhibit April 17, 2015; 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Ohio Statehouse Map Room, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free

The Ohio Statehouse will commemorate Arbor Day and Earth Day with a tree planting ceremony on the North Plaza of Capitol Square. The annual Ohio Statehouse Arbor Day tree planting is part of the ongoing efforts of the Capitol Square Review and Advisory Board to create a prominent green space for the citizens of Ohio.
150th Anniversary of the Repose of President Lincoln and Civil War Encampment: Pay Your Respects to the President April 29, 2015; 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Ohio Statehouse, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!

The Capitol Square Review and Advisory Board will commemorate the 150th anniversary of the repose of President Abraham Lincoln in the Ohio Capitol Wednesday, April 29, 2015. The 1st Ohio Light Artillery, Battery A, a group of Civil War re-enactors, will provide an honor guard for a replica of Lincoln’s casket from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. This will take place on the site where the slain President lay in state in the Ohio Statehouse Rotunda on April 29, 1865.

This program is supported by the 1st Ohio Light Artillery, Battery A

April 29, 2015 events will also include:Civil War Encampment 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Lincoln Funeral Train 12:30 to 2 p.m.
Lincoln Presentation by National Park Service 7 p.m.

A special exhibit of reproduction images from the Library of Congress tells the story of President Abraham Lincoln’s assassination and the men and woman named as conspirators along with their fate. This exhibit is for mature audiences.
Profile in Courage May - August 2015
Ohio Statehouse South Light Court, 1 Capitol Square, downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!

The Profile in Courage Award seeks to make Americans aware of the courageous acts of their public servants, and to encourage elected officials to choose the public interest over partisanship – to do what is right, rather than what is expedient. In 2008, Secretary of State Jennifer Brunner received this prestigious award. The Profile in Courage Award was created in 1989 by members of President Kennedy's family to honor President John F. Kennedy and to recognize and celebrate the quality of political courage that he admired most.
The award recognizes a public official (or officials) at the federal, state or local level whose actions demonstrate the qualities of politically courageous leadership in the spirit of Profiles in Courage, President Kennedy’s 1957 Pulitzer prize-winning book, which recounts the stories of eight U.S. Senators who risked their careers by embracing unpopular positions for the greater good.
Vintage ‘Base Ball’ Returns to Capitol Square:Ohio Village Muffins vs. The Capitol Cannons May 19, 2015; 5:30 p.m.
Ohio Statehouse West Plaza, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!

Reminiscent of barnstorming tours of yesteryear, the match begins at 5:30 p.m., as the Capitol Cannons challenge the Ohio Village Muffins in an exhibition game of vintage “base ball.” The event is free and open to the public. Celebrate the Ohio Statehouse and take a step back to the 1800’s with an exhibition game as the Ohio Village Historical Muffins battle members of the Ohio General Assembly on the west lawn of Capitol Square. Bring your lawn chair or blanket and come to the “People’s House” to enjoy the hour-long old-time base ball (originally two words) game.

After the base ball game, stay and enjoy a cannon firing demonstration. Come early to choose your spot as concessions will be available. The 1st Ohio Light Artillery, Battery A will provide cannon fire demonstrations as part of the event.Sponsorship provided by the Ohio Lobbying Association.
Fulton County Comes Alive May 22 – November 10, 2015
Ohio Statehouse Governor Thomas Worthington Center, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!

The Fulton County Historical Society will highlight objects from their collections that show the life and culture of Fulton County, Ohio.
History of Memorial Day Exhibit May 22 – May 26, 2015
Ohio Statehouse Rotunda, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!

Did you know that the Ironton-Lawrence County Memorial Day parade is recognized as the oldest continuously held Memorial Day parade in the nation? Visit the Ohio Statehouse for a patriotic exhibit on the history of Memorial Day. Learn who created it and why, and find out how Americans have celebrated over time.
Life on Lake Erie June 1 – June 30, 2015
Ohio Statehouse Map Room, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!

The Ohio Lake Erie Commission (OLEC) sponsors an annual contest and encourages camera aficionados to submit photos that convey the “Life on Lake Erie” message as they enjoy Ohio’s Great Lake year-round. The photo contest is aimed at capturing the day-to-day lives of people, plants and animals that live and thrive in the Lake Erie watershed.Winning photos are featured in OLEC’s traveling Lake Erie Photo Gallery and will travel throughout Ohio. The Ohio Statehouse is proud to be a host gallery.
Monuments Tour Tuesday, June 2, 2015; 12 and 2 p.m. (Probable continuation throughout the summer)
Ohio Statehouse Grounds, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
Contact: Dayna Jalkanen at (614) 728/2697 or djalkanen@csrab.state.oh.us Free!
Tour the grounds of the Ohio Statehouse to discover interesting stories about famous Ohioans and learn about the monuments that immortalize Ohio history and American history on Capitol Square. This tour will feature a special stop at the Ohio Holocaust and Liberators Memorial, which was dedicated June 2, 2014.
Summer Fridays at the Statehouse Lunch-Time Performing Arts Series Each Friday starting June 5 - August 28, 2015 (absent July 3); 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Ohio Statehouse West Steps and Plaza, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!

Summer Fridays is a FREE lunch-time outdoor performing arts series staged on the West Plaza (High Street) of the historic Ohio Statehouse. Summer Fridays at the Statehouse provides an opportunity for the public and downtown community to gather on Capitol Square to experience some of Columbus’ diverse arts groups and to visit the beautiful Ohio Capitol.

Enjoy a free lunch-time concert on the West Plaza of the Ohio Statehouse each Friday (absent July 3) in June, July and August. View the concert schedule at www.ohiostatehouse.org.

Canceled in the event of rain.Plein Air at the Ohio Statehouse June 19, 2015; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Capitol Square, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!
Join dozens of plein-air artists as they converge on Capitol Square. Artists throughout Ohio will “choose a spot” on Capitol Square and paint in the tradition of plein air. En plein air is a French expression which means "in the open air", and is particularly used to describe the act of painting outdoors. Ohio Statehouse visitors are invited to visit with artists from Central Ohio Plein Air as they create their works of art. Artwork created during this day will be placed on exhibit in the Ohio Statehouse throughout the month of July. Some artwork will be available for purchase in the Statehouse Museum Shop. In case of inclement weather, the event will be rescheduled.
The event is presented in partnership with Central Ohio Plein Air. More information about COPA is available at www.centralohiopleinair.com.
Boy Scout Merit Badge Day June 26, 2015; 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Governor Thomas Worthington Center and State Room, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
Contact: Chris Matheney at (614) 728/2696 or cmatheney@csrab.state.oh.us Free; however registration is required at www.skcbsa.org.

The Ohio Statehouse Museum and Education Center invites you to attend the Statehouse Boy Scout Merit Badge Day. Come learn about Ohio government and history and earn the Citizenship in the Nation merit badge at the Ohio Statehouse. The Ohio Statehouse is the state’s Capitol, a National Historic Landmark and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Scouts and parents are encouraged to bring a brown bag lunch as space will be provided. The program includes a tour of the Ohio Statehouse given by Statehouse historian Chris Matheney. Chris will be your Merit Badge counselor for the program following the tour.

The program will begin at 11:30 a.m. with registration in the Governor Thomas Worthington Center on the lower level of the Statehouse. Counseling sessions will take place from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. This is a great way to learn about Ohio government and history while earning the Citizenship in the Nation Merit Badge.

Registration is required at www.skcbsa.org.
Ohio State Fair Model July 16 – August 18, 2015
Ohio Statehouse Museum Gallery. 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!
Come to the Ohio Statehouse to see a model replica of the 2000 Ohio State Fair. You’ll recognize some of your favorite spots at the fair and will be amazed by the level of precision and detail. The 2015 Ohio State Fair runs from July 29 through August 9, 2015.
Using the Ohio Statehouse as a Teaching Tool: Teachers’ Professional Development Seminar July 22, 2015; TBA
Ohio Statehouse State Room, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free! Space is limited and registration is required at www.creativelearningfactory.org.

Attention Teachers! Join the Ohio Statehouse Museum Education Center and the Creative Learning Factory to learn innovative ways to use the Ohio Statehouse as a teaching tool. The day will include historical thinking-based activities for the classroom as well as an in-depth tour of the Statehouse. This seminar is open to any grade-level teacher.

Further details will be coming soon!
Statehouse Volunteer Open House September 17, 2015; 4 to 7 p.m.
Ohio Statehouse Map Room and Museum Gallery, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
Contact: Dayna Jalkanen at (614) 728/2697 or djalkanen@csrab.state.oh.us Free!
Are you looking for a fun and interesting way to give back to the community? Consider volunteering at the Ohio Statehouse! Stop by our open house between 4 and 7 p.m. to learn about volunteering opportunities and benefits, meet with current Statehouse Volunteers and staff members, take a tour of the Statehouse, and enjoy light snacks and beverages. Contact Dayna Jalkanen at (614) 728/2697 or djalkanen@csrab.state.oh.us for more details about volunteering at the Ohio Statehouse.
National Planting Day at the Ohio Statehouse September 23, 2015; 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Ohio Statehouse North Plaza, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!

The Ohio Statehouse, in partnership with Keep Ohio Beautiful, the Scotts-Miracle Gro Company and the Davey Resources Group, will celebrate National Planting Day. The celebration will include a short ceremony and planting of native species on the North Plaza of the Ohio Statehouse and information displays. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will take place indoors in the Ohio Statehouse Atrium. National Planting Day celebrates the value and power of native species in restoring ecological balance to the environment, while creating greener, more beautiful communities and landscapes. Since native species are losing ground to suburbanization, fragmented habitats, ornamental plants and invasive species, National Planting Day partners will use the Ohio Statehouse grounds to highlight native species. Native species are critical to attracting specialized pollinators and insects, which in turn provide food for birds and ultimately many more animals up the food chain.
American Revolutionary War Living History Day September 30, 2015
Ohio Statehouse Lawn, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
Contact: Chris Matheney at (614) 728/2696 or cmatheney@csrab.state.oh.us Free!

This program incorporates history, art, science, writing, math, economics, music and medicine of the 1770’s in the Ohio Territory and is centered around the construction of Ohio’s only Revolutionary War fort—Fort Laurens near Bolivar, Ohio.

Students will enlist in the Continental Army of 1777, study artillery trajectories, print a Continental Congress Broadside on a printing press, taste camp food, practice military drill, play period camp instruments, lay out the ground work of the fort using replica 1770 surveying equipment, and visit with General George Washington as he makes a surprise inspection of the initial phases of the construction of Fort Laurens.

Learn the fascinating stories behind the Ohio Statehouse’s most well-known painting— Perry’s Victory on the Battle of Lake Erie by William Powell. Statehouse staff will lead participants through the history of the painting, from its inception to its restoration and current state.

The Capitol Square Review and Advisory Board and Capitol Square Foundation are seeking nominations for the 2016 class of “Great Ohioans.” The award commemorates special Ohioans who have played a significant role in an event, or series of events, of lasting significance in World, American or Ohio history. Additional criteria include being born in Ohio or lived in Ohio for a minimum of five years. At least 25 years must have passed since the commemorated event, in which the nominee participated.

This award is an opportunity to recognize Ohioans who have made an impact in a number of important areas. All Ohioans, including teachers and students, are encouraged to participate in the nomination process. Great Ohioan nomination categories include: inventions/medicine/science; literature/journalism/history; academics; communications/education; entertainment/sports; and government/military/public service/religion. Nomination forms and details are available at www.ohiostatehouse.org.

Arts and Humanities Month at the Statehouse: Celebrate the Arts in OctoberSpecific events and times will be available in mid-2015. Ohio Statehouse, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!

The Ohio Statehouse will join forces with the Ohio Arts Council and hundreds of arts organizations and communities around the state and nation in celebrating National Arts & Humanities Month (NAHM) in October. NAHM has been celebrated since 1993 and provides a great opportunity for people to participate in the arts offered in their communities. More details will be available in mid-2015.

Bats, the only true flying mammals, are often maligned and misunderstood but are actually a very beneficial species. In fact, one bat will eat its own bodyweight in mosquitos and other flying insects in one night! Bats are nocturnal animals which most people rarely get to see. This exhibit provides a chance for up-close viewing of museum specimens of most of the bat species of Ohio.

Settlers of Ohio—A History of Service to the Soul of the People October 31 – November 30, 2015
Ohio Statehouse Map Room, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!

th century.

The exhibit focuses on history and community service for the benefit of all citizens and highlights religious freedom and the ingenuity of Ohio’s first citizens at the founding of the Buckeye State. The exhibit items include historic and contemporary photographs, original letters and books.

Meet figures from the past as you follow conductors with lanterns through the darkened hallways and chambers of the Statehouse. This historical tour is spooky but appropriate for all members of the family. Visit www.ohiostatehouse.org for tour time and ticket information.
Veterans Day ParadeSee the Parade and Cannon Demonstration from the Statehouse Lawn November 6, 2015, 11:30 a.m.
Ohio Statehouse West Plaza, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!

The Statehouse cannons will be fired on the West Plaza of the Ohio Statehouse to begin the parade in honor of Ohio’s veterans. Re-enactors from the 1st Ohio Battery A will be on hand to discuss the historic 1864 cannons.
This program is supported by the 1st Ohio Light Artillery, Battery A
Holiday Exhibit December 1, 2015 - January 4, 2016
Ohio Statehouse Map Room, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!

See historic and vintage photographs of Columbus’ Lazarus Department Store including Christmas window displays and trains. A trip to the Capital City during the holiday season was a treat for many Ohio families, and many people still have fond memories of the anticipation and delight of the displays and shopping at Lazarus.

The Statehouse will also feature an exhibit of milk glass from the collections of the Ohio History Connection. Milk glass is an opaque white glass that is blown or pressed into various shapes. This exhibit features many animal figures. First appearing in Venice in the 16th century, milk glass continues to be made today and has become a popular collectible.

Ohio Statehouse Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting December 1, 2015; 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Ohio Statehouse Rotunda, Atrium, South Hallway and Museum Gallery, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus
614/752-9777
Free!
The holiday season opens in Ohio with the annual holiday Statehouse event. Attend the Statehouse Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting to kick off the 2015 holiday season. Holiday activities include: carolers, refreshments, model trains, community mascots and much more. Historical characters and modern dignitaries will be on hand to greet guests, including Santa himself. Free and open to the public.

Free lunch-time concerts from Ohio musical groups will take place weekdays from December 4 to December 17. Musical performances are scheduled each weekday at noon in the Crypt of the Ohio Statehouse. Residents, staff and visitors will be treated to a lunch hour concert as Ohio choirs and musical groups celebrate and sing the songs of the season. The concerts are free and open to the public.
Candy Cane Sale at the Statehouse Museum Shop December 7 - 12, 2015 Ohio Statehouse, 1 Capitol Square; downtown Columbus

Draw a candy cane and receive a discount from 10-40 percent off your entire purchase.*

*Excluding Wine, Consignment Items, all Statehouse Holiday Ornaments and Governor’s Residence Holiday ornament. Not to be combined with any other discounts. Sale limited to quantities on hand.

The Ohio Statehouse is more than a monument to our past; it's where history happens! The Ohio Statehouse is open weekdays from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; weekends from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed holidays. The Ohio Statehouse Museum is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; weekends from noon to 4 p.m.; closed holidays. Admission is free. Free guided tours are offered weekdays on the hour from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and weekends from noon to 3 p.m. Tours depart from the Map Room easily accessible from the Third Street entrance. Groups of 10 or more are requested to call in advance to ensure a guide is available. Reasonably priced parking is available in the Ohio Statehouse Underground Parking Garage 24 hours a day. Entrances are located on Broad Street, Third Street and State Street. Contact 888/OHIO-123 for more information or to schedule a group tour. For more information about the Ohio Statehouse visit www.ohiostatehouse.org.

The Ohio Statehouse is handicapped accessible and senior friendly. The Capitol Square complex was restored to allow for greater access by individuals living with disabilities. Ohio Statehouse public programs and events are held in accessible and barrier free areas of the building so that everyone can participate. Ohio Statehouse visitors needing disability-related accommodations in order to fully participate in an event may contact the Capitol Square Review and Advisory Board at statehouse@csrab.state.oh.us or 614/752-9777 to communicate special needs. Please allow three weeks for arrangements to be completed.

The Capitol Square Review and Advisory Board (CSRAB) is responsible for maintaining the historic character of the Statehouse and Capitol Square while providing for the health, safety and convenience of those who work in or visit the complex. The Ohio Statehouse Museum Education Center coordinates tours of Capitol Square and provides information about the buildings, their history and Ohio's government.